Reviving the lost glory of jute
The National Jute Day was observed for the first time ever in the country on March 6. This was a remarkable event for the jute growers and others concerned. The week-long programme arranged to mark the day is aimed at promoting the various commodities of day-to-day use made of jute. There are distinct signs that the past glory of jute, the Golden Fibre of Bengal, may stage a comeback soon. There was a time when jute would hold out immense possibilities for farmers of the country. As time rolled on, demand for jute and jute products began to fall pouring cold water into the enthusiasm of the growers.
The situation became so precarious that farmers failed to get even the production cost of jute. Abysmally frustrated, many growers stopped cultivating jute and turned to cultivation of other crops. Widespread use of polythene bags contributed to the appalling condition of jute and jute products. Considering the dismal plight of farmers and for salvaging the jute industry from the dire strait the government has taken some pragmatic measures. Ban on production and use of polythene bags put a brake on the invasion of these bags but use of jute bags and jute products which is environment-friendly is yet to be introduced in a remarkable way. Therefore, the proper execution of the government policy relating to the jute sector brooks no delay.
There is no alternative to ensuring fair price of jute for the benefit of the growers. Use of jute bags has been made mandatory. More such measures should be taken to salvage the jute sector. It is disturbing to note that many state-owned jute mills were shut down rendering thousands of workers unemployed. The lost glory of jute must be revived for the benefit of the farmers and in the interest of the national economy. Farmers should be provided with quality seeds, easy term bank loan for buying agricultural inputs such as fertilizer and pesticides for boosting jute production. If fair price is ensured growers will not turn away from jute cultivation.
The RMG sector has contributed to the growth of the national economy considerably. Jute sector can also play a vital role in poverty alleviation. The Agriculture Ministry and the Department of Agriculture Extension and BJMC can play vital roles in this regard. Mere rhetoric will not do; what is needed is concrete action. Building up public awareness for increasing use of jute bags and other jute products can help achieve the desired goal.
